Sir Alex Ferguson insists he pays no attention to Liverpool's results or league position, claiming he was "surprised" to learn how far his rivals have fallen behind Manchester United ahead of their clash at Old Trafford.

Ferguson's men sit 21 points above Liverpool heading into Sunday's clash, but the United manager says the disparity between the two teams had not crossed his mind this season.

"I never even thought about that until it was mentioned on the television this week," Ferguson explained.

"I don't really look at that. I look at that mob that's behind us, the team that's directly behind us. Their programme, who they've got next. I do that all the time.

"Of course it's a surprise. Last year we were 30 points ahead of Arsenal and I'd never have believed that in a million years. If you look at the rivalry over the last 20-odd years it's quite amazing."

United remain seven points in front of second-placed Manchester City, staying on target for a 20th league title triumph, two more than Liverpool have accomplished.